SETU has highlighted the transformative role of inclusive higher education at a special Foundation Day celebration in Wexford.
Today’s event, titled ‘Making Impact on Society - Empowering People and Communities’, took place at the National Opera House in Wexford and focused on the role of higher education in creating opportunity, supporting communities, and driving social inclusion.
Professor Veronica Campbell, President of SETU, said the University’s ambition is “to be a transformative force in higher education, locally rooted and globally connected, driving innovation, inclusion, and impact across the region and beyond.”
"Today’s event in Wexford reflects SETU’s strong commitment to empowering people and communities through inclusive and accessible education. As we celebrate 30 years of higher education in Wexford, we also look ahead to the next chapter of opportunity for the region. Through lifelong learning, new tertiary pathways, strong community partnerships and education that responds to real societal needs.
The impact of SETU is reflected not only in economic growth and research innovation, but in the lives transformed, opportunities created, and communities strengthened across the southeast.”
Professor Veronica Campbell President of SETU
Delivering the keynote address, Dr Louise Callinan, Head of Access Policy at the Higher Education Authority, highlighted the important role that SETU plays in creating opportunities for the most disadvantaged and underrepresented groups in higher education, and in driving inclusive regional development.
“Within the strategic framework of the National Access Plan 2022-2028, SETU has pioneered exemplary initiatives in partnership with the community that demonstrate its responsiveness to the diverse needs of the region and its commitment to supporting successful graduate outcomes for the most disadvantaged learners.
Today’s celebrations highlight SETU’s impact as an agent of transformation, empowering more inclusive approaches within the communities and the region that it serves.”
Dr Louise Callinan Head of Access Policy, Higher Education Authority
An Ceann Comhairle, Deputy Verona Murphy T.D., took part in the panel discussion, sharing her thoughts on education and inclusion, as both an SETU graduate and Ireland’s first female Ceann Comhairle.
The event also featured student perspectives from Emma Sparkes and Amy Roche of SETU’s award-winning Certificate in Personal Development programme, who spoke about the positive impact inclusive education can have on confidence, personal growth, and future opportunities.
The panel discussion titled ‘SETU: Making Impact on Society - Empowering People and Communities’ explored the role of education, partnership and leadership in supporting regional development and social progress.
The discussion was chaired by Dr Richard Hayes, Vice President for Strategy at SETU, and featured contributions from Deputy Murphy as well as Dr Karina Daly, CEO of Waterford and Wexford Education and Training Board (WWETB); David Denieffe, Chief Operations Officer at SETU; and Dr Sarah Sartori, Strategic Project Lead for Higher Education at SETU.
Guests also viewed an art exhibition showcasing creative work connected to the event theme and celebrating community, inclusion, and participation.
This month, SETU is hosting a series of Foundation Day events across Waterford, Wexford and Carlow, marking four years of ‘Making Impact’ since the University’s establishment in 2022.
SETU’s Foundation Day celebrations continue with a final event in Carlow on Friday, 15 May.